MLB insider expects Astros to be aggressive at trade deadline
And during an appearance on Foul Territory, MLB insider Ken Rosenthal believes the Astros, despite their weaker prospects, will be involved at the deadline. Rosenthal had a firm stance that the Astros would be aggressive at the deadline.
"I do think they will be aggressive," Rosenthal said. "The one thing they have also needed and have talked about is a second baseman, preferably a left-handed hitting second baseman. If the Rays go over the next ten days, maybe they make Brandon Lowe available... I do expect them to be aggressive."
Houston has a couple of areas it could look to improve. A left-handed hitting batter has been one mentioned often as a potential fit for the Astros. With Yordan Alvarez out, there is a severe lack of left-handed hitters in the lineup.
While Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Brandon Lowe, who'd fill the lefty hitter and second base needs, would be an ideal pickup, the odds aren't great. The Rays are in solid shape to contend, just 1.5 games behind the Boston Red Sox for the Wild Card spot.
MORE: Astros writer reveals 'ideal outcome' at MLB trade deadline
But if he were to be available, as Rosenthal says, Lowe would be a great option. Outside of second base and a lefty hitter, the Astros could also use a left fielder and another starting pitcher, ideally one who'd take over as the team's number three starter.
Being aggressive at the trade deadline could be more challenging for the Astros than for other teams. A weaker farm system could lead the Astros to get creative at the deadline, especially if Rosenthal's expectation for the team to be aggressive comes true.
Sitting atop the AL West, the Astros should take this chance to bolster their roster. If every player can get healthy, and they can add a few of the positions of need, the Astros could be one of the top teams in the league and contend for a World Series in 2025.
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